Studio M by Marian

Winter Wedding Card

2012-01-11T14:25:00.000-08:00

I love how this card came out. I made this for a new bride to be having a Winter Wedding. Her colors Ivory, Gold and Navy ... Congratulations Veronica! This card was CASed and Inspired with slight changes in colors, sentiment and ribbon whose original can be seen by the talented Rock Star artist: Rita Wright. Be sure to check out her blog for fabulous inspiration.

Recipe:

Stamp Set: Elements of Style,

Paper: Brushed Gold, Night of Navy, Mocha Morning Specialty DSP, Very Vanilla,

Ink: Black Stazon, Night of Navy, Old Olive

Accessories: Big Shot, Textured Impressions Vintage Wallpaper Folder, Blendar Pen, Sponge, Jewel Adhesive Pearls, Very Vanilla 5/8" Satin Ribbon, Night of Navy Embossing Powder-retired (photos look black), Prettiest Kit-retired

Square Card Size: 5 x 5

Enjoy!

Exciting News and More!!

2012-01-04T00:09:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I've got some exciting news to share. I've been selected to join the Paper Crafters Sampler design team by the talented Melanie Schulenberg (owner) and happily excipted! The Sampler offers paper crafting projects each month based on a particular theme.

The first month's theme is "Expression of Affection". The projects in this January issue are all about Love to celebrate upcoming Valentine's Day.

Here is a little sneak peek of my project for this month:

In addition to the upcoming Valentine issue, there's an Early Bird special for those interested in the Full 2012 year.

If you're interested in signing up, be sure to use my design team code: PCSMG, Thank You!

Here to an exciting 2012 year.

Welcome 2012 & My 2011 Year in Review Favorite Cards

2011-12-31T15:22:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year ... from our home to yours Marian, Mandy, Matthew at Disneyland 11/2011 and my Mom, Grandma Margarita celebrating her 91st B-day (bottom left photo Jan. 2011)

The back of our Holiday Card

Winter Storm Watch for Santa using Lovely as a Tree

Brayer Sky Technique using Nature Walk

Elements of Style

Spring Break using Surfs Up!

Crackle Glass Technique using Nature Walk

Inspired by Nature

Heat Embossing Technique using Nature Walk

Crackle Glass Technique using Nature Walk

Have a Seat

House of Haunts

French Foliage

Autumn Days

Hello Doily and Lovely as a Tree

I truly appreciate your support and thank you for the blessing of knowing you this year.

Best Wishes for a Very Happy New Year and Inspiring 2012!

Doily Vintage Holiday Card, cQc#113

2011-12-03T22:12:00.000-08:00

Hello!

After having a wonderful Disneyland Holiday with my kids I found out during my vacation I won the last color challenge over at the fabulous colourQChallenge design team and was Crowned the Queen title! Thank you Arielle and her Royal Court Design Team. What a magical surprise.

This weeks color challenge is creating a project with beautiful blues.

Stamps Recipe: SU Hello Doily, Lovely as a Tree, Delicate Doilies, Christmas Punch-Retired

Paper: Shimmery White, Marina Mist, Sahara Sand,
Ink: Bashful Blue, Marina Mist, Sahara Sand, Night of Navy
Accessories: Big Shot Textured Impressions Vintage Wallpaper Folder, Extra Large Oval Punch, Sponge, Dimensionals, Jewel Adhesive Pearls, Stampin Spots

Enjoy!

Fabulous Florets For You CARD

2011-12-01T22:39:00.000-08:00

Stamp Recipe: SU Fabulous Florets, Great Friend-retired
Paper: Watercolor paper, Tempting Turquoise
Ink: Tempting Turquoise, Old Olive
Accessories: Tempting Turquoise 1/4" grosgrain ribbon, Aqua pen
Technique: Watercoloring

Enjoy!

Autumn Days Thank You Card, cQc#112

2011-11-26T16:56:00.000-08:00

Back to playing along with the colourQchallenge. I scattered a few leaves by stamping off and the background stamped tone on tone. I colored the berries with Cherry Cobbler but my photograph the berries came out a little darker. Total time to complete 30 minutes.

Stamp Recipe: SU Autumn Days, Three Little Words, Sketch It-Retired (the bow image)

Paper: Pumpkin Pie, Whisper White, Early Espresso, Cherry Cobbler

Ink: Pumpkin Pie, Early Espresso, Cherry Cobbler, Daffodil Delight

Accessories: Dimensionals

Here is another Autumn Days wreath I created two years ago posted on my SplitcoastStampers gallery.

Happy Thanksgiving!

In Fall Season French Foliage, cQc#109

2011-11-05T17:35:00.000-07:00

Here is my take on the colourQ challenge #109. Emboss Resist is a cool technique. It's Easy! Just stamp the image with Versamark, then emboss with clear embossing powder. After that is down, sponge or use brayer of the colors of your choice, Don't forget to "buff" with a small paper towel the embossed images to remove any excess ink. For my card after the step of using Versamark, I then added "ink", stamped, embossed and buffed.

Stamps Recipe: SU French Foliage, Just Believe

Paper: Very Vanilla, Soft Suede

Ink: Soft Suede, Island Indigo, Pumpkin Pie, Cherry Cobbler, Versamark

Accessories: Very Vanilla 5/8" Satin Ribbon, Top Note Die, Embossing Buddy, Heat Tool, Clear Embossing Powder, Powder Tray, dimensionals, Brayer, Sponge

Technique: Emboss Resist, Brayer Sky, Sponging

Enjoy!

CRaCKleD GlaSS Nature Walk

2011-11-04T10:33:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check out my step-by-step Crackle Glass Tutorial from a previous posting.

The card below was CASed and INspired with slight changes in technique, sentiment, ribbon, and background from whose original can be seen by the talented Rock Star artist: Carrie Gaskin. Be sure to check out her blog for fabulous inspiration. Check out Carrie's sweet creation at Artistic Avenger:

Stamps Recipe:  Nature Walk, Tiny Tags
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Paper: Very Vanilla, Crumb Cake, Soft Suede, Pretty n Pink, First Edition Specialty DSP

Ink: VersaMark, Soft Suede-stamped off

Accessories: Vintage Wallpaper Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, Jewelry Tag Punch, Cutter Kit, Clear Embossing Powder, Embossing Buddy, Heat Tool, Powder Pal, Natural Hemp Twine, Sponge, dimensional, Stamp-a-ma-Jig, Pretty n Pink 5/8” Satin Ribbon
                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Technique: Crackle Glass, Collage stamping

Enjoy!

A Spooky Haunted Real Estate Card, colourQ Challenge #108

2011-10-29T23:06:00.000-07:00

For the first time I finally got a chance to play with my SU House of Haunts stamp set that I've had for awhile collecting dust. I think I just made it in time to play along for the colourQ Challenge. Each week be sure to check out their cool color pallets, get inspired and create!

Happy Halloween to You and Happy Birthday to Me!

Stamps Recipe: SU House of Haunts, Tiny Tags
Ink: Basic Black, Daffodil Delight, So Saffron, Peach Parfait
Paper: Whisper White, Peach Parfait
Accessories: Top Note Die, Daffodil Delight 5/8" Satin Ribbon, Brayer, Sponge, Dimensionals, Jewlry Punch, Natural Hemp Twine
Technique: Brayer Sky, Sponging

Enjoy!

Vintage Wedding Sunflower Card

2011-10-25T10:20:00.000-07:00

My daughter, Mandy requested a Vintage Wedding Sunflower card and here is what I came up with. This new stamp is my new best friend.

This card was CASed & INspired with slight changes in a few colors and sentiment from whose original can be seen by the talented Rock Star artist: Jenna Barber @ www.jennabeecrafts.blogspot.com and http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/2012127?si=Sunflower&perpage=12&thumbsonly=0&thumbcheck=

My son, Matthew grew these beautiful Sunflowers.

This one from the Internet

Stamps Recipe: Sunflower, Tiny Tags
Ink: Daffodil Delight, Real Red Markers
Paper: Very Vanilla, Mocha Morning Specialty DSP, Crumb Cake, Early Espresso, Basic Black
Accessories: Hemp Twine, Jewelry Punch. Scallop Square die

Enjoy!

Happy Birthday Brooke! and OCCC Fall Color Challenge

2011-10-10T11:04:00.000-07:00

Fall Birthdays are the Best and a big shout out to my niece Brooke. Happy Birthday Brookie! I've found a new color challenge to play with so I made two cards! Come by and check out this fun artistic group called Our Creative Corner. This week they have a fabulous fall festive color challenge going on so be sure to check them out. Here is another one of my postings a Fall Welcome Autumn card.

Stamp Recipe: French Folliage, Curly Cute

Ink: Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Cajun Craze, Pool Party

Paper: Whisper White

(CAS) Clean and Simple

Enjoy!

Welcome Autumn and colourQchallenge #104

2011-09-30T09:29:00.000-07:00

Happy 2nd Birthday over at ColorQ! To celebrate ColorQ Challenge #104 their 2nd Birthday you get to CASE a previous Queens creations. Here's my take using this beautiful stamp set.

My CASE was inspired by Becky at Scrap Junkie cQc#100 by using the same SU French Foliage, a beautiful stamp set.

Stamp Recipe: SU French Foliage

Paper: Whisper White

Ink: Early Espresso, Old Olive, Pool Party, Rose Red

Technique: One Layer Card

Enjoy!

Embossed Lovely as a Tree, PP#64

2011-09-19T13:57:00.000-07:00

Here is my nature "plant" card creation for the Clean and Simple (CAS) Paper Players Challenge #64. To me it's not the best photo but I wanted to show off the effect of the embossing of the lovely trees and sentiment. This is a easy, quick but elegant looking card to make. I’ll be featuring this card for an upcoming Holiday workshop Make ‘n Take. Stampin’ Up's! Lovely as a Tree stamp set is a must have for all artists.

This card never goes out of style. I CASed it w/slight changes by my upline Brenda Keenan from her 2006 version: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/376566?&sorttime=all&sortby=v&way=desc&si=bkeenan256

Link to 2010-2011 Idea Book & Catalog page 14

Stamp Recipe: Lovely as a Tree #115026, Christmas Greetings #115448

Paper: Shimmery White, Brushed Silver

Ink: Versamark

Accessories: Silver Emboss Powder, Heat Tool, Satin 5/8" Whisper White Ribbon

Enjoy!

Flying Pumpkins for the Paper Players #63

2011-09-15T13:59:00.000-07:00

My quick take for The Paper Players Color Challenge #63 using these awesome colors Rich Razzelberry, Basic Gray and Old Olive ... perfect for Halloween.

Stamps: Wicked Cool, Scaredy Cat
Paper: WW, Basic Gray
Ink: Basic Gray, Rich Razzelberry, Old Olive
Accessories: Basic Black 5/8" Satin Ribbon, Sponges, Dimensionals
Technique: Brayer Sky, Sponging
Card Size: Square

Enjoy!

Explore. Dream. Discover. colourQ Challenge #98

2011-08-19T22:38:00.000-07:00

A little bit of a change. I created a card that wasn't SU and change is a good thing with this stamp set "Life is Good" by Gina K Designs. My take for the colourQ Challenge #98. I enjoy playing with techniques like sponging and brayering. This week beautiful crisp, cool blues.

Recipe:

Stamps by Teresa Momber @Gina K Designs

Paper: SU WW, Bermuda Bay, Island Indigo

Ink: SU Bermuda Bay, Lucky Limeade, Island Indigo, Soft Suede

Technique: Brayer Sky, Sponging

Enjoy!

Have a Seat (I Miss You)

2011-08-18T13:33:00.000-07:00

Super fast to make! Made a few of these as Hostess Thank You cards. Love this "Have a Seat" stamp set.

Thanks Bernadette and Liesbeth!!!

Recipe:

Stamps: Have a Seat, Three Little Words
Paper: VV, Night of Navy, Springtime Vintage DSP (retired)
Ink: Night of Navy
Accessorries: Victoria 5/8" Crochet Trim, Silver Cording

Enjoy!

Pure Cotton Candy with The Paper Players

2011-08-17T09:41:00.000-07:00

It’s great to be back playing along with The Paper Players Tickled Pink monochromatic challenge. These sweet colors remind me of pure cotton candy Rose Red, Regal Rose and Pretty in Pink. This is my creation using Inspired by Nature stamp set. Stop by at their blog:

Recipe:

Stamps: Inspired by Nature, Tiny Tags Paper: WW, Rose Red, Regal Rose
Ink: Rose Red, Regal Rose, Pretty in Pink
Accessories: Sponge Daubers, framed Tulips Textured Impresssions Embossing Folder,
Pretty in Pink 5/8" Satin Ribbon, Jewlry Tag Punch

Enjoy!

My Very First colourQ challenge #97

2011-08-11T22:16:00.000-07:00

I finally made it! I've have always wanted to play along with the colourQ challenge Royal Court Design Team. I love the bold, bright, brilliant colors that they pick for each week. So here's my creation using the new SU Fabulous Florets stamp set and Melon Mambo Stampin' Emboss Powder. I CASed my design with slight changes from the sample showing in the Summer Mini Catalog on page 22. The Summer Mini ends in two weeks through August 31st. Come over and check out these fabulous talented artist over at the colourQ Challenge blog.

Recipe:

Stamps: SU Fabulous Florets, Tiny Tags
Paper: Whiper White, Melon Mambo
Ink: Melon Mambo, Tangarine Tango, Pool Party, Basic Black, Versamark
Accessories: Top Note Die, Basic Black 5/8" Satin Ribbon, Jewlery Tag Punch, Natural Hemp Twine, Sponges, Melon Mambo Stampin' Emboss Powder, Heat Tool
Technique: Heat Embossing and Sponging

Enjoy!

Nature Walk Heat Embossing

2011-07-21T11:26:00.000-07:00

For another upcoming workshop.

I used VersaMark for a watermark look for the background and heat embossed the birdy with Soft Suede.

Stamp Recipe:

Stamps: Nature Walk, Tiny Tags

Paper: Very Vanilla, Crumb Cake, Soft Suede, Melon Mambo, First Edition Specialty DSP

Ink: VersaMark, Soft Suede (stamped off)

Accessories: Vintage Wallpaper Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, Jewelry Tag Punch, Cutter Kit, Clear Embossing Powder, Embossing Buddy, Heat Tool, Powder Pal, Natural Hemp Twine, Sponge, dimensional, Stamp-a-ma-Jig, Very Vanilla 5/8” Satin Ribbon

Technique: Heat Embossing. collage

Enjoy!

Inspired by Nature

2011-07-20T13:13:00.000-07:00

Love this stamp set! Made this for a upcoming workshop.

Stamp Recipe:

Stamps: Inspired by Nature, Curly Cute

Paper: Whisper White, Pretty in Pink

Ink: Lucky Limeade, Pretty in Pink, Chocolate Chip, Basic Black

Accessories: Pretty in Pink 5/8” Satin ribbon, Daubers, Sponge

Technique: Stamping & Sponging

Enjoy!

It's Time to Say GoodBye

2011-06-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

In order to make room for all the new products coming in July, hundreds of stamps sets & accessories are retiring! Items are only available now through June 30th. Below are just a few of my favorites.

Puns from the Past

Puns from the Past (You are Priceless-Hero Arts)

Pick a Petal

Always

Because I Care (Hostess-Level 1)

Dream Gardens

Define Your Life

All Holidays and Wonderful Favorites

Eastern Blooms

Eastern Blooms (close up)

Haunting Jumbo Wheel

All Holidays

Pick a Petal

Extreme Snowboard

Dream Gardens

Click HERE to view and order:
Last Chance Clear-Mount Stamp Sets
Last Chance Wood-Mount Stamp Sets
Last Chance Accessories
Last Chance Definitely Decorative
Last Chance Discounted Products

Ends June 30th

The Festivities are Approaching ... The Royal Wedding.

2011-04-25T15:03:00.000-07:00

Prince William, Sigh-I love a man in a uniform.

A look back 07.29.1981.

I have my Tiara ready.

My Cut Above winner for week #40 for The Paper Players!

2011-04-04T15:05:00.000-07:00

Click Here for the Cut Above challenge winners for the week of #40.

This creation is so pretty I have to show this beauty off. For my Cut Above choice, I have chosen Julie DiMatteo over at The Paper Pixie. Oh my goodness, Julie's card took my breath away. The Fifth Avenue Floral stamp set is a first class choice. Julie's gold embossing is splendid along with the neatly laid ruffle ribbon border. Her water coloring and cutting skills are superb. A beautiful, elegant, vibrant award winning masterpiece filled with inspiration.

Congratulations Julie from Aplharetta, Georgia!

Recycled Silhouette Photo Collage for The Paper Players #41

2011-04-03T12:45:00.000-07:00

Got duplicate photos? It's time to recycle over at The Paper Players. This is what I like to do with extra pictures. Here I incorporated twenty years of many fun trips to Disneyland all onto a two-page 12 x12 layout. Just get your paper snips out, tuck the pics and make a silhouette photo collage.

The Paper Players Recycling Challenge!

Click HERE and play!

It's High Tea Time for The Paper Players #40

2011-03-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's week #4 and my last of the Guest Designer spot with The Paper Players. I want to say good bye and thank all of the Design Team ladies Lesley, Nance, LeAnne, Anne Marie, Jaydee and Ann for all their ongoing wonderful support. It was a wonderful fun experience working with all of you. High tea cheers to all!

Here's my take:

This week we have a Sketch Challenge for you! I love sketch challenges. Just pick your favorite color combo and stamp set and play along with us this week!

Do you like the tea bag? My little vellum tea bag was INspired/CAsed by Carrie Gaskin/Artistic Avenger whose original can be seen here with a few slight changes. Three easy steps shown below. I used my tag punch, cover the cs tag piece with vellum, filled the tea bag with real tea (for a scent ... Mmmm), then used the string that came from a real tea bag already tea stained. Check out her blog, you'll fall in love with this talented artist: Carrie Gaskin.

Three easy steps to make a tea bag!

Tag punch, a slightly larger piece of vellum & fold over

Yippee ... tea bags!

Stamp Recipe: Morning Cup, Tiny Tags

Ink: Baja Breeze, Not Quite Navy, Rose Red, Pear Pazzazz, Crumb Cake, River Rock, Momento Black

Paper: Watercoloring Paper, Very Vanilla, Baja Breeze, Springtime Vintage DSP, White Vellum Card Stock

Accessories: Victoria 5/8" Crochet Trim, Chantilly 1/2" Crochet Trim, Aqua Painter, Blender Pen, Dauber, 3/4" Circle Punch, Extra Large Tag Punch, Scallop Oval XL Punch, 1-3/8" x 5/8" Oval Large Punch, Dimensionals, Misc. Buttons

Technique: Watercoloring

Come over and play!

Enjoy!

Saturday Sneak Peek for The Paper Players

2011-03-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

Here's a little peek at Sunday's Paper Players sketch challenge card. I know that you will love the challenge the Design Team has planned for you! Please check back tomorrow for the full reveal.

It's week #4 of my Guest Designer spot!

Click here for the Cut Above winners for the week of #39.

For my Cut Above choice, I have chosen Pam Giudici's card below from Alabama. So very cool. Congrats Pam!

Come play with us this Sunday!

It's Your Birthday! ... Clean and Simple

2011-03-20T00:00:00.001-07:00

Hello! I cannot believe this is my 3rd week as a Guest Designer for The Paper Players! Time is flying by. I am having such a good time, and visiting all of the terrific blogs ... what wonderful inspiration.

Have you ever asked yourself what can I do with this single image from the stamp set Dream Gardens? I have.

Hooray... It's week #3 of my Guest Designer spot!

Stamp Recipe: SU Dream Gardens, Curly Cute, Tiny Tags

Ink: SU Pretty In Pink, Basic Black
Paper: SU Crumb Cake, Whisper White, Basic Black
Accessories: SU Jewel Basic Pearl, Jewelry Tag Medium Punch, Twine, Black 3/16" Gingham Ribbon (retired), Misc. Stick Pin

Click here and come play with us for the Clean and Simple Challenge #39!

Enjoy!

Saturday Sneak Peek for The Paper Players!

2011-03-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

Here's a little peek at this Sunday's Paper Players inspiration challenge card. I know that you will love the challenge the Design Team has planned for you! Please check back tomorrow for all the details.

Hooray... It's week #3 of my Guest Designer spot!
Click here for the Cut Above winners for the week of #38.

For my Cut Above choice, I have chosen Rita Wright's card over at Cards by Rita aka Rita's Creations ... so cute. Congrats Rita!

Enjoy!

Crackled Glass Tutorial with Nature Walk for The Paper Players #38

2011-03-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hooray! It's week #2 of my Guest Designer spot over at The Paper Players, and I have to tell you I'm having a great time! The team is awesome and the players are jamin!


This week it's a color challenge of these colors, but I did come up with something I'm happy with.


Crackled Glass Technique using Nature Walk stamp set	.


It's hard to view but I first stamped French Script (En Francais) with Blushing Bride ink for the background.

Welcome to The Paper Players Color Challenge

Hooray! It's week #2 of my Guest Designer spot

Layers of Ultra Thick Embossing Enamel (UTEE) give your stamped images an antique look.

Below. I made a tutorial for you ... it's fun & very easy.

Stamp image all over on cardstock

Add color and sponge as needed, the more images on your background the better.

Apply VersaMark over the entire piece of cardstock


Place your cardstock into your Powder Pal (optional) and pour Glassy Glaze over it.If you don't have Glassy Glaze or other UTEE, use crystal clear embossing powder. If you don't have a powder pal, use a large sheet of copy paper. Cover entire image and tap off excess powder. When you are done, your card stock should be covered with a bumpy, linoleum-like layer of Glassy Glaze.

Heat powder with heat gun until melted.

While the Glassy Glaze is still hot, add more powder over the cardstock. I prefer to apply coast well with lot’s of VersaMark again cover immediately with Glassy Glaze.

Tip: If the layer of Glassy Glaze has cooled, don't worry. Either reheat, or apply another layer of VersaMark before adding more Glassy Glaze.

Heat again until melted. The second layer will have a smoother look.

Repeat process (easy!). If you use regular embossing powder, repeat at least two more times (but prefer the Glassy Glaze).

After heating the last layer of embossing powder or Glassy Glaze, put the cardstock in the freezer for a good30 minutes until completely cool. I prefer to leave in the freezer overnight, the longer the better. When you take it out, the cardstock may be slightly warped. That is perfectly okay.

Bend cardstock carefully until embossed layer cracks. Repeat on different spots of your cardstock until you like the look of it.

If you'd like the cracks to show more, sponge dark colored ink over the entire image. The ink will absorb into the cracks, making them look more prominent. Also, I heard thru the stamp grapevine but I haven’t tried this just yet if you run the cooled piece through your crimper - once in each direction, you get more cracks! Please, let me know you try it.

Buff image with a paper towel to pick up the ink that didn't seep into the cracks.

((( Have you noticed the little pearl necklace around my cute birdie? )))

I didn't add a sentiment but thought the card could be used for a Thinking of You, Just Because, Hello or perhaps a Sympathy card.

A peek inside!

Let me know if you try it ... I would love to see!

Stamp Recipe: Nature Walk, French Script

Ink: SU Baja Breeze, Blushing Bride, Early Espresso, Markers, VersaMark

Paper: SU Springtime Vintage DSP, Very Vanilla, Blushing Bride, Early Espresso

Accessories: Top Note Die, Antique Brads, Early Espresso 1-1/4” Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, Blender Pen, Jewels Adhesive Basics Pearls, VersaMark, Heat Gun, Stamping Sponge, Powder Pal, non-SU product Glassy Glaze (Ultra Thick Embossing Enamel) or clear embossing powder,

Technique: Crackled Glass, Collage Stamping, Vintage

Card Size: 5.25" x 5.25"

Enjoy!

Saturday Sneak Peek with The Paper Players #38

2011-03-12T00:00:00.001-08:00

Here's a little peek at this Sunday's Paper Players color challenge card. I know that you will love the challenge the Design Team has planned for you! Please check back tomorrow for all the details.

Click Here for the Cut Above winners for the week of #37.

For my Cut Above choice, I have chosen Vicki Burdick's card from MO over at It's a Stamp Thing ... so pretty. Congrats Vicki!!

Come on over and play with us this Sunday!

Enjoy!
Marian

Spring Break with The Paper Players and my most Exciting News!

2011-03-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Woohoo!! Can I just tell you how excited I was to be asked to be a guest designer on The Paper Players blog this month! This talented group of girls invited me to join them. Big thanks to Lesley, Ann, Jaydee, LeeAnne and Nance.

So, the first inspiration challenge of this month is a theme challenge ... Spring has Sprung.

I made this card for a very nice Hawaiian family who deserve a Surf's Up! I wanted to create something bold, bright, fun and happy. I brayered the sky, sponged around the outside of the card and masked in the sunrise.

It's time for a Spring Break!

Click here to see my other Tropical Party creation!

Stamp Recipe: SU Tropical Party, Just Surfing

Ink: SU Crushed Curry, Pacific Point, Tempting Turquoise, Rich Razzelberry, Melon Mambo,

Paper: SU WW, Crushed Curry

Accessories: 2 3/8” Scallop Circle punch, ½” Rich Razzelberry and Crushed Curry grosgrain ribbon
Technique: Brayer sky, sponging, masking

Thanks for stopping by "Mahalo",

Sneak Peek with The Paper Players Challenge

2011-03-05T10:28:00.000-08:00

Wow!!! I am super excited to be the March Guest Designer for The Paper Players Sunday Challenge!

Here's my little sneak peek at this Sunday's The Paper Players inspiration card. I know that you will love the challenge the Design Team has planned for you!

Come play this Sunday!

Elements of Style for The Paper Players and CCCC68

2011-02-07T18:03:00.001-08:00

Yes, it's February and they say "Love is in the Air" at The Paper Players challenge #33 . Their theme challenge this week is to make a romantic card of any style. So with the inspiration wreath photo below and Stacey Shaffer's Curtain Call Color Challenge I've came up with my romantic I love you card using the Elements of Style stamp set.

Stamp Recipe: Elements of Style, Punch Potpourri, Three Little Words

Ink: Melon Mambo, Pick Pirouette

Paper: Melon Mambo, Pick Pirouette, Wild Wasabi, First Edition DSP, Vellum

Accessories: Full XL Heart Punch. Embosslits Scalloped Heart to Hearts die, Two-Step bird XL punch, misc. pink-tea dye seam binding, a trinket pin from ViolaMahr's Etsy shop, Sticky Strip

Enjoy!

I Made Headlines-With The Paper Players

2011-02-06T11:37:00.001-08:00

I made the Headlines over at The Paper Players #32 Anything Goes Challenge. This was my very first time playing The Paper Players challenge. With over 80 entries entered I won The Headliner! What an honor to be surrounded by so many talented stampers.

You made my day!
My Take:

Here is my Fav from the selected Cut Above, Cindy from Stamps, Paper and Ink blog.

Enjoy!

Studio M, My 2010 Favorite Selections!

2011-01-23T17:43:00.000-08:00

I thought it would be fun to highlight some of my favorites of 2010 in a blog post. And, my ALL time favorite Holiday photo card at the very bottom. Enjoy!

Our 2010 Holiday photo card, my daughter, son and mom ... who just had a Birthday
and turned Ninety-One!

A day trip on the west coast at Harley Farms Goat Dairy, - Award Winning Goat Cheese - Pecasdero, California

Please feel free to leave a comment. Would love to hear from you.

HappyNewYear!

Nature Walk

2011-01-07T22:06:00.000-08:00

Stampin' Ups! new
Occasions Mini

I love this new stamp set along with Botanical Gazette and

Specialty Designer Series Paper First Edition DSP

*01.30.11 Playing the Paper Players - Anything Goes Challenge

Embossed Butterfly

Stamp Recipe: Nature Walk, Tiny Tags Ink: Very Vanilla, Marina Mist, Old Olive, So Saffron, Cherry Cobbler, Early Espresso, Not Quite Navy, Basic Black Paper: Very Vanilla, Cherry Cobbler, Specialty Designer Series Paper First Edition DSP, Botanical Gazette DSP
Accessories: Marina Mist 5/8” Satin Ribbon, Top Note, Jewelry Tag punch, Vintage Trinkets, dimensional, sponge, daubers, clear embossing powder, Versamark
Technique: Masking, Brayer Sky, Sponging

Click here

Enjoy!

To Honor Our Veterans this Holiday, CCCC61

2010-12-19T22:09:00.000-08:00

To honor our Veterans this Holiday. A tribute to all who have served our country.

Dedicating this card for my dear Uncle Sal & my terrific Father who has proudly served WWII. Unfortunately, my Uncle has suffered two strokes this year and I hope this brings him some courage with his recovery. Additionally, I really hope Dad can see this card from heaven.

My original creation for Stacy Schafer's Stamping Stage Curtain Call Color Challenge Act #61. The sentiment & dove are heat embossed. For the edge sponging I'd used two colors first with Early Espresso and then Bravo Burgundy.

Below, a peek inside along with a stamped envelope.

Stamp Recipe: Courage, Hero Jumbo Wheel, Peaceful Season-Hostess, Just Believe (inside)
Up In The Stars
Ink: Crumb Cake, Early Espresso. Bravo Burgundy, Craft White
Paper: Crumb Cake, Early Espresso, Very Vanilla
Accessories: Sponge, embossing powder, Tim Holtz embossing Distressing Ink, Curly Label- extra large punch

Hope you like my creation as much as I do.

Happy Holidays and God Bless America.

Prayers out to my Aunt Rosie & Uncle Sal for a speedy recovery. In just a few days they will be celebrating their Sixty-Two years of marriage ... Amazing. Two of the most gentle people on this earth.

Studio M Aviary Holiday, CCCC60

2010-12-15T18:23:00.000-08:00

It's a Aviary Holiday. My take for Stacy Schafers Curtain Call Color Challenge Act 60.
Swing on over and check out Stacey's Stampin Stage for other entries.

Can you see the tiny adhesive Jewel Basic Pearls around the little wreath?

Stamp Recipe:
SU Aviary, Baroque Motifs, All Holiday, Jolly Bingo Bits and PTI Polka Dot Basics
Ink: Craft WW, Real Red, Old Olive, Certainly Celery and Chocolate Chip
Paper: WW, Real Red and Old Olive
Accessories: Basic Black 5/8” satin ribbon, Top Note die, Jewel Basic adhesive Pearls and dimensionals

Enjoy,

Pearls and Diamonds Birthday CARD. CCCC58

2010-11-29T20:50:00.000-08:00

Pearls and Diamonds Birthday!

Not one card BUT two cards! My two creations for Stacey Schafer's Curtain Call Color Challenge #58 ... check it out.

Below Card #1

Card #2 (my Favorite ... I'd love Crumb Cake)

Stamp Recipe:
SU French Script, Party Hearty, Tiny Tags and Inkadinkado Christmas Silhouettes
Ink: WW, BB, Crumb Cake, Concord Crush, Basic Gray
Paper: WW, BB, Crumb Cake, Concord Crush
Accessories: White 5/8" satin ribbon, BB 1-1/4" striped grosgrain ribbon, adhesive Jewel Basic Rhinestones, adhesive Jewel Basic Pearls, dimensionals, silver cording, sponge, Jewelry tag medium punch. 1-3/4" scallop circle punch, 2-3/8" Scallop circle extra large punch
Card Size: Square 5x5

All Stampin' Up! supplies are available 24/7

Enjoy!

Winter Storm Watch For Santa, CCCC 57

2010-11-22T22:12:00.000-08:00

My creation for Stacey Schafer's Stamping Stage Curtain Color Call Challenge Act 57. To be honest I was a little intimidated by this color combo but once I got rolling with the sponging you just never know what will appear. I had a Holiday/Winter/Vintage theme in mind and was anxious to use my favorite SU stamp set Lovely as a Tree. I started out first by masking the moon along with shading with Temping Turquoise around the circle post it note as your mask. Sponging all around in a circular motion adding Basic Gray for a dark cloudy, glazed effect. Using a torn posted note to create depth for my hills. The back ground trees were stamped off, than stamped on with Chocolate Chip. Sprinkled a few adhesive pearls through out the sky. My goal was to get a “Brrr” style effect. I'm please with the outcome and I'd would be very thankful to be selected for the "Lead" Curtain Call Challenge (giggle).

Stamps Recipe: Lovely as a Tree, Wandering Words

Ink: WW, Tempting Turquoise, Basic Gray, Chocolate Chip, Canjun Craze Marker

Paper: WW, Tempting Turquoise

Accessories: Adhesive Pearls, sponge, 5/8” Chocolate Chip grosgrain ribbon, post it note for mask, 1-3/4” circle punch, dimensionals, Jewel Basic Pearls, Jewel Basic Rhinestone

Technique: Sponging and Masking

Card Size: Square 5x5

There's an AMAZING special this week from Stampin' Up! with hugely discounted products including fabric and My Digital Studio! It's called the "On-line Spectacular".

My on-line store.

Thanks for stopping by Happy Holidays!

Happy Birthday to Me, Myself and I, (IC255)

2010-10-30T08:02:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to me, myself and I. Took a risk and entered my bird-day card in my very first Splitcoast Gallery Poster Inspiration Challenge.

Stamp Recipe: Aviary, Picture This, non SU PTI: Polka Dot Basics
Ink: Crumb Cake, Craft Whisper White, Marina Mist
Paper: Marina Mist
Accessories: Satin WW ribbon, Doily

Happy Bird-day to me!

Thanks (so much), Curtain Call Color Challenge 53

2010-10-25T22:40:00.000-07:00

My take for Stacey Shafer’s Curtain Call Color Challenge Act53!

After two years of having this stamp set Turning a New Leaf , I’d finally had a chance to play with it. Also, I’d used the retired SU set With Gratitude, one of my All time favorite leaf stamp sets. This maple leaf has its own distinctive shape that I find striking. To get the crinkled look, I’d sprayed water directly to the stamped cardstock and crumbled it all up.

Stamp Recipe: With Gratitude, Tiny Tags, PTI: Turning a New Leaf Ink: Daffodil Delight, Basic Gray, Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie Paper: Basic Black, Whisper White Accessories: Prettiest Kit, 4” Doily, Satin White Ribbon, cording, dimensional, tag punch

Thanks for stopping by!

Happy 10-10-10 Birthday Brooke, CCCC51

2010-10-10T19:50:00.000-07:00

Made this birthday card for my FaV niece, Brooke. Today is her birthday 10-10-10 ... how cool is that? They say this day will come once every 1000 years ... hmmm. This card was CASed with slight changes in colors, sentiment, ribbon, party hearty birthday hat and a polka dot background from whose original can be seen by the talented artist: Kristen Moore.

My take for Stacey Schafer's Stamping Stage Curtain Call Color Challenges Act: 51 .

Brooke and I (Auntie M) at the Old Mission San Juan Bautista, CA. We're laughing at the long cactus plant behind us (lot's of giggles).

Along side niece Brooke with my dear mother Margarita, 90 years young and my son the youngest Matthew, my baby.

Happy Birthday Brookie!

Stamp Recipe: Aviary, Party Hearty, Picture This, PTI-Polka Dot Basics
Paper: Marina Mist, Shimmery White, Whisper White
Ink: WW Craft Ink, Marina Mist, Crumb Cake, So Saffron, Basic Black
Accessories: WW 5/8" satin ribbon, Big Shot Bigz Die Top Note, 1-3/8" x 5/8" large oval punch, 1/16" circle punch, Jewel Basic Pearl

Enjoy!

Autumn Sympathy, CCCC Act 50

2010-10-04T20:34:00.001-07:00

Congratulations Stacey Schafer on *50* Color Challenges!

My take creating with the Salted Background Technique!

A lovely combination of Autumn colors:

See below how the salt left little dots all over.

My sympathy card this week trying out the technique Salted Background over on SplitcoastStampers. Fun, easy and quick. I'd used watercolor paper instead of glossy for my background.

Stamp Recipe: Autumn Days, Warmest Regards
Paper: Watercolor paper, Crumb Cake (Kraft), Cajun Craze
Ink: More Mustard, Old Olive, Cajun Craze, BB
Accessories: 1-1/4" Striped Old Olive grosgrain ribbon, Sea Salt, Aqua Painter, re-inkers, spray bottle, heat tool
Technique: Salted Background

Enjoy!

Inspired by Nature

2010-09-19T16:29:00.000-07:00

Love, Love this stamp set!

Stamp Recipe: Inspired by Nature, Teeny Tiny Wishes
Paper: WW, Certainly Celery
Ink: Certainly Celery, Wild Wasabi, Melon Mambo
Accessories: Sponge Daubers, Certainly Celery ribbon, 1-3/4" x 7/8" Oval punch & cording
Technique: Sponge Daubers

Thanks for stopping by,

Little Ashley

2010-09-01T21:26:00.000-07:00

Stamp Recipe: LaLaLand, SU Short and Sweet
Paper: Basic Black, Gable Green, Welcome Neighbor 6x6 DSP
Ink: Basic Black, Gable Green, Melon Mambo, Chocolate Chip, Blush Blossom
Accessories: Aqua Painter, Scallop oval punch, Polka dot grosgrain ribbon, Black 1/4" gingham ribbon, misc eye glass sticker, cording, Crochet Fleurettes II, ms adhesive pearl, Big Shot scalloped circle dye
Card size: 5x5

Enjoy!

Wonderful Neighbor, CCCC 44

2010-08-22T22:09:00.000-07:00

MY creation for Stacey Schafer's Stamping Stage Curtain Color Call Challenge Act #44.
Stamp Recipe: SU Good Neighbors, Wonderful Favorites, Hostess Picnic Parade, PTI: BG Basic Hearts, Gingham BG: Cornish Heritage Farms
Paper: Temping Turquoise, WW, Poppy Parade
Ink: Stazon Black, Tempting Turquoise, Daffodil Delight, Poppy Parade
Accessories: Satin white ribbon, dimensionals, sponge
Technique: Brayer Sky, Sponging and Tone on Tone

Enjoy!

Happy Birthday Donna Backer! and CCCC43

2010-08-19T17:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Donna Backer! To one of my dearest best friend for over 35 years.

This card was CASed with slight changes from whose original can be seen by the talented artist: J_Belanger over at Splitcoast Stampers. I'd just love SCS web site.

MY creation for Stacey Schafer's Stamping Stage Curtain Color Call Challenge Act #43. For the bottom layer do you like my homemade DSP? And, there is really a tiny splash with Tangerine Tango in the center of a few flowers.

Stamp Recipe: SU Elements of Style and Well Scripted
Paper: WW, Pacific Point, Kiwi Kiss
Ink: Stazon Black, Pacific Point, Kiwi Kiss, Tangerine Tango (tiny bit)
Accessories: Blender Pen, Aqua Painter, ms adhesive pearls. Small Fleurettes II, dimensionals

Enjoy!

Happy Retirement Marilyn Ekdahl!

2010-08-14T09:32:00.000-07:00

Retirement ... what a lovely word. I'd made this retirement card for my sister Marilyn. She devoted thirty-six years of service to Willit's Unified School District in Northern California ... a double "wow". Their cat name is Marbel (a beauty queen) sitting in the kayak. Marbel's picture was the smallest size I could get. I'm pleased.

Congratualations Marilyn!

Stamp Recipe: Tropical Party, Loads of Love, Loads of Fun, Just Surfing, Hit the Road, Teeny Tiny Wishes
Paper: WW, Taken with Teal
Ink: Real Red, Wild Wasabi, Tempting Turquoise, Brilliant Blue, Brocade Blue, Bashful Blue, So Saffron, Creamy Caramel, Ink spots
Accessories: Stampin’ Up! Ink spots, Aqua Painter, dimensionals, smiley face stickers for the hubcaps, Jolee's-Fishing, Creative Scraps Crafty Secrets-Travel, 3/4" circle punch for the moon mask
Technique: brayer sky, masking, direct to paper
Card size: 8x5" x 5.5"

Enjoy!

Soft and Simple Vintage, CCCC 41

2010-08-03T20:40:00.000-07:00

My soft & simple vintage creation for Stacey Schafer's Stamping Stage Curtain Color Call Challenge Act #41. Stop by and see her beautiful creations/color challenges at her blog: www.stampinwithstacey.blogspot.com

CASed and Inspired by: Weekend Warrior over at Splitcoast Stampers. With these lovely fresh, crispy and clean colors I'd used a different sentiment, the Night of Navy back panel I'd used the paper crimper (hard to view), distressing tool and a splash of stampin' marker bouncing the marker a few times over the stamp.

Stamp Recipe: Because I Care, Picture This
Paper: Crumb Cake, Night of Navy, WW
Ink: Marina Mist, Night of Navy marker
Accessories: Jewelry med tag punch, hemp twine, cutter kit-distressing tool, crimper, dimensionals, eyelet border punch
Technique: Rock n' Roll

Enjoy!

Scallop Punch Sunset, CCCC Act 37

2010-07-05T12:55:00.000-07:00

Scallop punch sunset. I'm trilled with my creation for Stacey Staffer's Curtain Call Color Challenged Act 37. In July 2008 I'd was lucky to attend one of Michelle Zindorf's brayer technique class. Ever since I've been hooked and really enjoy doing this technique along with sponging. For the sunset I'd added my version of masking a scallop punch instead of from a circle punch and I'd really, really used Barely Banana in the center of the card. When brayering & repeating each layer of the same color ink it gave it more of a orange sherbert ice cream effect.

Stamp Recipe: SU Tropical Party, PTI: Signature Greetings
Paper: WW, Tempting Turquoise
Ink: Melon Mambo, Barely Banana, Tempting Turquoise, Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Melon Mambo 1/2" polka dot grosgrain ribbon, 1 3/4" scallop circle punch
Technique: Masking, brayer sky, sponging,

Enjoy!

Independence Day Thank You Flowers, CCCC 36

2010-06-29T22:49:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th to you! To me my flowers kind of look like fireworks. I’ve been dying to play along at Stacey Shaffer’s Curtain Call Color Challenge: (Act 36) and very happy to be back.

What a way to end another SU year with celebration colors of Red, White & Blue from Stampin' Up! Great choice of colors this week Stacey.

Inspired and CASing my card from: raduse on SplitcoastStampers

Stamp Recipe: Greenhouse Garden, Much Appreciated
Paper: Real Red, WW, Kraft
Ink: Real Red, WW Craft, Night of Navy, Versamark
Accessories: SU real red polka dot ribbon, dimensional, white embossing powder, button and twine, crimper, CM heart punch
Technique: Heat embossing

Enjoy! Marian

Golden Anniversary Elegance

2010-06-20T14:43:00.000-07:00

An oldie but goodie! Using SU brushed gold card stock instead of my older version I was using brushed copper.

From my SCS posting in 2008:
http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/ga...;ppuser=124094

Shown here on my blog in 2009 & currently:

http://studiombymarian.blogspot.com/...-came-out.html

The little heart image showing inside the card is embossed and is from Short and Sweet stamp set.

Stamp Recipe: SU Baroque Motifs, SU Fancy Flexible Phrases, SU Short & Sweet Paper: Brushed Gold, Shimmery White, White Vellum-card stock Ink: Creamy Caramel, VersaMark
Accessories: Small oval punch, ivory organdy ribbon, gold ep, Stampin' dimensional's, MS adhesive pearls, mini glue dots, sponge Technique: Heat embossing

Enjoy!